A survey of 229 students in grades 10-12 at a rural consolidated high school in Tennessee sought to determine employment patterns among rural students and the impact of that employment on students' academic and personal lives. Findings indicate that employment of rural youth was an accepted part of the teen culture; student employment increased at higher grade levels, with the greatest frequency during the senior year. Over half of seniors were employed. Males and females were equally likely to be employed. Working students were more likely to be tardy or absent and to be making poorer grades. Failing grades in English were reported by six percent of working students and one percent of nonworking students. Working students were less likely to be planning to attend a 4-year college and more likely to be planning to join the military or to attend a technical school or community college. Over half of employed students worked more than 20 hours per week. They were more likely to use their money for personal expenses (car and entertainment) than for family needs or college savings. According to students, the greatest negative impact of work was lack of leisure time to spend with friends and family or to be involved with sports and clubs. The greatest positive impact was money to spend. Contains 12 references. (TD)